Christian O'Brien, guitarist of Melbourne band, Alpine, has been charged with sexual assault of a teenager.
The stunning revelation was made earlier this week at Melbourne Magistrates Court with the release of documents detailing the Police's call for public assistance to identify a man in relation to an incident in August 2019.
The allegation was that the person of interest "intentionally sexually touched the complainant, a child under the age of 16, in circumstances where the touching was contrary to community standards of acceptable conduct" which allegedly occurred in Little Bourke Street.
The Age reports court documents show that the police requested a warrant be issued for Mr O'Brien's arrest after the accused was identified as the offending male as a result of a media callout. The court documents stated, "upon the media release being circulated, the accused has subsequently fled Melbourne to Brisbane in a bid to avoid apprehension. The accused is failing to engage with investigators and investigators believe he is likely to flee the country."
Christian O'Brien is the guitarist and songwriter of the ARIA-nominated alternative-pop band Alpine which has featured on the cover of scenestr magazine in August 2012 and June 2015.
A statement on behalf of former members of Alpine: Phoebe, Tim, Phil, Ryan and Lou:
'Regarding the reports on Alpine's guitarist Christian:
'We are deeply concerned and saddened by these allegations. Any matter of sexual assault is an extremely serious one, however, as the matter is still before the courts we are advised that we are unable to provide further comment at this time.
'Our thoughts are with those involved and hope all parties have the privacy and support required to deal with this devastating matter. The band disbanded in 2019 and will not be releasing music or playing shows in the future. It is very disappointing to announce this news in this way to our fans.
'A reminder that help is available on 1800 RESPECT, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you need any support on such affecting issues.
- Phoebe, Tim, Phil, Ryan and Lou'
'Regarding the reports on Alpine's guitarist Christian:
'We are deeply concerned and saddened by these allegations. Any matter of sexual assault is an extremely serious one, however, as the matter is still before the courts we are advised that we are unable to provide further comment at this time.
'Our thoughts are with those involved and hope all parties have the privacy and support required to deal with this devastating matter. The band disbanded in 2019 and will not be releasing music or playing shows in the future. It is very disappointing to announce this news in this way to our fans.
'A reminder that help is available on 1800 RESPECT, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you need any support on such affecting issues.
- Phoebe, Tim, Phil, Ryan and Lou'
